Thinking about relocating to Kansas City?
With over half a million residents, Kansas City is far from a sleepy town. Actually, Kansas City is one of the most desirable places to live among young adults.
You can dig into jazz history at the American Jazz Museum, learn about sports legends at the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, or take in some world-class art at the Nelson-Atkins Museum.
But as you probaly know, Kansas City has experienced concerning crime rates. Ranking 3rd overall with a score of 64.49, the city recorded 8 homicides per capita in the second quarter of 2023 and has a violent crime rate of 1,596 per 100,000 people, which is significantly higher than the national average.
Despite these statistics, there are safe neighborhoods within the city still provide residents with a sense of security.
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Is Kansas City Safe?
Kansas City may not rank among the safest cities in the U.S., but when compared to places like St. Louis, it fares relatively better.
That said, not all neighborhoods are created equal, some areas require a bit more attention than others when it comes to safety.
There are certain neighborhoods you’d be wise to avoid, particularly if you’re not familiar with the city.
Areas like East Side, Blue Valley, and Old Northeast have higher crime rates, and wandering around these parts, especially at night, could increase your chances of encountering trouble.
On the other hand, a lot of areas in Kansas City are on the upswing with tight-knit communities and tons of stuff to do.
Just keep your wits about you, know where you’re going, and you’ll be fine.
Interested in the safer spots to check out or maybe even move to? Let’s get into it.
Safest Kansas City Neighborhoods
- Armour Hills
- Downtown
- Lea Manor
- Mission Lake
- Mission Lake
Armour Hills
Armour Hills, nestled in the heart of Kansas City, stands out as one of the region’s safest and most desirable neighborhoods.
With crime rates 28% lower than the national average, Armour Hills offers its 2,422 residents a tranquil haven.
The neighborhood boasts a remarkable 46% reduction in violent crimes compared to the national average, placing it among the safest 3% of Kansas City’s neighborhoods.
Residents of Armour Hills enjoy a comfortable median income of $103,120, and a low unemployment rate of just 2.0%, reflecting the area’s economic stability.
This community offers affordable living, with an average monthly rent of $928, significantly below the national average of $1,702.
The history of Armour Hills adds to its charm. Originally owned by the prominent Armour family, the neighborhood’s uniqueness is preserved through J.C. Nichols’ vision.
He insisted that each home exude individuality, creating a diverse and picturesque streetscape.
Beyond safety and character, Armour Hills is conveniently located, providing easy access to shopping centres, post offices, and major roads.
It’s just a short commute, less than 10 miles, to Downtown Kansas City. Armour Hills shines as a beacon of security, prosperity, and community in Kansas City, making it an ideal place to call home.
Downtown (Central Business District)
Kansas City’s Downtown area, known as the Central Business District, offers a mix of safety and urban vibrancy.
With a median home price of $191k and a median rent of $944, it offers affordable living options for singles and young professionals seeking a secure environment.
Safer than 67% of neighborhoods in Kansas, this district provides residents with a tranquil haven amidst the urban hustle.
The neighborhood hosts a population of 16,956, offering a close-knit community atmosphere.
Residents can enjoy in cultural experiences like unforgettable concerts at the T-Mobile Center, savoring culinary excellence at the hottest Crossroads restaurants, or immerse themselves in the latest exhibits at Union Station.
Notably, the Kansas City Convention Center is a prominent fixture, encompassing more than 800,000 square feet across various buildings, including Bartle Hall, the Grand Ballroom, Conference Center, Meeting Rooms, and Barney Allis Plaza.
These facilities cater to diverse interests, making the area a hub of activity and an exemplar of safety and cultural enrichment.
Lea Manor
Situated a mere 20-minute drive, approximately 15 miles away from downtown, Lea Manor appeals to commuters seeking a suburban haven.
This family-friendly locale boasts a safety record surpassing 70% of Kansas City neighborhoods, providing residents with peace of mind.
While Lea Manor is rich in convenience, with easy access to local attractions and downtown Kansas City, having a car remains essential for errands.
Positioned adjacent to Leawood, an area renowned for its artistic and cultural contributions to the city, residents enjoy various dining options, shopping centres, supermarkets, and services.
Across state lines to the south, medical facilities, offices, and the prestigious Hallbrook Country Club beckon.
Nature enthusiasts find solace in nearby recreational gems like Loose Park, the Kansas City Zoo, Lakeside Nature Center, Swope Park, and Antioch Park.
Mission Lake
Mission Lake is an ideal haven for families and retirees, boasting a safety level surpassing 94% of other Kansas City neighborhoods.
The area’s allure extends beyond its safety, as it embraces affordability and proximity to thriving destinations like Martin City and Red Bridge.
With its well-maintained streets and welcoming ambience, Mission Lake provides a tranquil retreat.
Nearby, an array of remarkable dining options caters to diverse tastes. The neighborhood’s secure atmosphere makes it especially appealing to families and retirees seeking a peaceful and protected community.
Comprising over 2,400 residents, Mission Lake exhibits a median age of 51.5 years. Gender distribution is balanced, with 44.88% males and 55.12% females. 95.04% of residents are US-born, fostering a strong sense of local belonging.
Public transportation is easily accessible through the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority’s bus services, with eight bus stops within Mission Lake.
Mission Lake is a budget-friendly area, with an average monthly rent of $921, so safety and comfort don’t come at a premium.
Volker
Situated northwest of the Westport district, locales like the 39th Street West District and Old Westport Shopping Center envelop it.
A serene atmosphere permeates Volker’s tree-lined streets, inviting leisurely walks and shopping escapades.
Standing as one of the city’s safest areas, it outshines 80% of Kansas City neighborhoods, catering seamlessly to singles, young professionals, families, and retirees alike.
Families can relish Roanoke Park, a cherished community space hosting the annual free dance recital by the City in Motion dance company.
As a gem straddling several neighborhoods, Roanoke Park holds a special place for Volker’s residents to connect with nature.
Must-visit spots include Prospero’s Books, a bibliophile’s paradise on 39th and Bell streets, offering a treasure trove of secondhand books and eclectic media, with a graffiti-adorned basement.
Culinary delights abound with Q39, a bustling eatery renowned for its delectable barbecue, including burnt ends and craft sandwiches.
Tiki Taco serves up flavorful California-Mexican fare until 10 p.m., featuring street tacos, burritos, and horchata.
For trendy ambiance and craft cocktails, venture to Goat and Rabbit, where diverse TV entertainment, from sports to zoo livestreams, complements the experience.
Conclusion
In Kansas City, several neighborhoods stand out for their remarkable safety records, offering residents a secure and comfortable living environment.
Each spot, be it Armour Hills, Downtown (Central Business District), Lea Manor, Mission Lake, or Volker has its own special vibe, so you’re sure to find one that’s just right for you.
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